Preservation and Revitalization of Inuit Sign Language: Three life stories on video

The “Preservation and Revitalization of Inuit Sign Language” project will create 3 videos of Inuit deaf persons recounting their life stories in Nunavut. The use of video to record these life-histories affords deaf users of Inuit Sign Language the opportunity to express their stories in their own customary language (Inuit Sign Language), which they grew up using with their family members and friends (both deaf and hearing).

Stories reveal that widespread use of Inuit Sign Language among extended family members and friends (who are hearing) enables for a high degree of deaf inclusion into regular social and cultural activities. In this way, the preservation and revitalization of the Inuit Sign Language is relevant for both deaf and hearing Nunavummiut as a means to ensure the continuance of their customary use of Inuit Sign Language within their communities.

By recording the life histories of three deaf persons form selected communities, who are embedded in extended family members of hearing persons, our project will provide insight into customary Inuit customs and practices as they are experienced by deaf persons and their hearing family members and friends.